Sumter, October 26, 2025
News Summary
The Sumter Gamecocks defeated Ridge View Blazers 36-29 at Memorial Stadium, securing their ninth region title under coach Mark Barnes. Sumter’s quarterback Franklin Richardson scored the decisive touchdown late in the fourth quarter, helping his team improve to an 8-1 record. Despite a strong comeback from Ridge View, who led at one point in the second half, Sumter maintained control of the game with significant defensive plays and a dominating rushing offense. The loss marks Ridge View’s third defeat of the season by seven points or fewer, ending their chance for a region title.
Sumter – The Sumter Gamecocks triumphed over the Ridge View Blazers with a score of 36-29 at Memorial Stadium on Friday, ending Ridge View’s hopes of a region title. This victory marks Sumter’s claim to the 5-5A region title, their ninth title in the last eleven seasons under head coach Mark Barnes, and improved their overall record to 8-1 while extending their winning streak to seven games.
Late in the fourth quarter, Sumter’s quarterback Franklin Richardson scored a go-ahead touchdown, solidifying the team’s lead. Ridge View made a valiant effort to close the gap, previously trailing 21-0 in the first half. They managed to rally back and led twice in the second half, even taking the lead at 29-28 after Spencer Bobian’s third touchdown. Despite their strong comeback, Sumter regained control with Richardson’s fourth rushing touchdown and a subsequent two-point conversion with just over two minutes left on the clock.
Ridge View’s sophomore quarterback Bijon Virgo led the team down to the Sumter 20-yard line but could not connect on the final play of the game, resulting in an incomplete pass that sealed the victory for Sumter. This loss was significant for Ridge View, marking their third defeat of the season, all by seven points or fewer. Ridge View coach Derek Howard acknowledged the challenges of trying to win after conceding a 21-point lead early in the game.
Sumter’s defense played a critical role in the game, making a crucial stop on Ridge View’s final possession to secure the win. After an opening loss to White Knoll on August 29, Sumter rebounded strongly, winning seven consecutive games. Mark Barnes expressed pride in his team and mentioned how they had been underestimated prior to their recent performances.
For Ridge View, the game was a missed opportunity to claim their first region title since 2007. The Blazers will finish their regular season against Blythewood, and are hoping to earn a first-round bye in the upcoming 5A Division I playoffs.
In the first half, Sumter opened the scoring with a long run touchdown from Cayon Gordon, contributing significantly to their early 21-0 lead. Ridge View managed to narrow the gap before halftime with a touchdown pass from Virgo to Khristian Jackson on a crucial fourth-and-goal play, bringing the score to 21-7.
The game also highlighted other local high school teams achieving notable victories, including Irmo and Dutch Fork, ahead of their region championship showdown. Individual achievements included Amadre Wooden of Batesburg-Leesville becoming the school’s all-time leading rusher with 4,714 career rushing yards, and Gray Collegiate winning its first region title in Class 4A with a decisive 48-0 win over Aiken. Additionally, Newberry improved to 9-0, gearing up for another region title game next week.
Looking ahead, Sumter will host Westwood and Ridge View will face Blythewood with both games scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM. Sumter dominated the rushing offense with a total of 278 rushing yards compared to Ridge View’s 174 yards.
Upcoming Games
- Sumter vs. Westwood at 7:30 PM
- Ridge View vs. Blythewood at 7:30 PM
Key Stats
| Team | Score | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Sumter | 36 | 278 |
| Ridge View | 29 | 174 |
FAQ
What was the final score of the Sumter vs. Ridge View game?
How many region titles has Sumter won under Coach Mark Barnes?
What was Franklin Richardson’s contribution to the game?
What was Ridge View’s situation following the loss?
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Irmo Teams Shine in Week 9 of SC High School Football
Irmo Yellow Jackets and Dutch Fork Silver Foxes Triumph
South Carolina High School Football Week 9 Scores
High School Football Games Scheduled in Columbia Metro
High School Football Season Hits Midway Point in South Carolina
Irmo Leads Latest South Carolina High School Football Rankings
High School Football Matchups Heat Up in South Carolina
High School Football Matches Scheduled across South Carolina
South Carolina Prep Football Media Preseason Poll Released
South Carolina High School Baseball Season Highlights Player Performances and Rankings
Additional Resources
- The Item: Sumter High Football Hosts Ridge View
- Wikipedia: Sumter, South Carolina
- The State: Sumter vs. Ridge View Game Recap
- Google Search: High School Football South Carolina
- MaxPreps: Ridge View vs. Sumter Recap
- Google Scholar: High School Football Region Titles
- WISTV: Football Friday Week 3 Matchups
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
